Hi guys! On today’s PerformHappy podcast, I’m absolutely thrilled to bring you a conversation with none other than Miss Val—yes, the Valorie Kondos Field, legendary former head coach of UCLA gymnastics. Miss Val led her team to seven national championships and was even named Coach of the Century. She’s truly one of a kind, and after spending time with her, I’m ready to sign up for her classes myself. She’s that inspiring.

In this episode, we dive into what it means to be a true champion. For Miss Val, it’s not just about the medals and titles; it’s about character, joy, and leaving a positive impact on everyone around you. Champions who grow as people are the ones who win with heart—they bring joy to their work, they smile even through the hard stuff, and they inspire others to push for greatness.

Miss Val shares her secrets on building a culture where athletes feel safe, supported, challenged, and motivated to work hard for their dreams. Her approach emphasizes the importance of mental health, leadership, and genuine joy in the journey. There’s so much wisdom here on what it takes to lead, to nurture young athletes, and to create an environment where they can thrive.

So, grab a notebook, maybe listen twice—this episode is packed with insights that you won’t want to miss! Enjoy!

In this episode, Coach Rebecca and Valorie Kondos Field talk about:

Redefining Success in Gymnastics.

How to Become an Effective Leader.

Growth Mindset, Respect, and Humble Leadership Tips.

Building Trust Through Conversations.

Balancing Discipline and Fun in Gymnastics.

The Impact of Parental Involvement in Sport.

The Role of Failure in Growth.

How to Resolve Conflicts.

“When athletes know you care about them as a person, not just as a means to boost your own ego, they become more invested and start taking ownership of their journey.”– Valorie Kondos Field

Valorie Kondos Field’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missvalkondos/

Valorie Kondos Field’s Website: https://www.officialmissval.com/?fbclid=PA